Oxford historian suffers stroke

OXFORD – On Friday, Charlotte Stafford, the much-loved scion of one of Oxford’s oldest families and the village’s long-time historian, suffered what has been described by a close friend as a moderate stroke.

Her friends are calling on those who know her to show their support and aid in her recovery by sending cards to the neurological suite at Wilson Memorial Hospital, where Stafford is recuperating. While her prognosis is good, she may continue to experience weakness on her right side and some loss of language.

“She’s making remarkable improvements,” said the friend, who has spent time at Stafford’s bedside. “She’s a tough bird.”

In April, Stafford celebrated her 90th birthday by taking a long awaited voyage to England. Eschewing more conventional methods of travel, the lady historian elected to undertake her transatlantic crossing in style and luxury aboard the Queen Mary 2.

According to her traveling companion, she created quite a stir on the ship, with male passengers vying for the privilege of escorting her to each meal and to various parties during the voyage. This will likely come as no surprise to those who have the privilege of knowing Stafford, as the Oxford-native has a way of winning over the hearts and minds of those around her. No one could deny that at age 90, despite any frailty of body, her mind is still whip-sharp. With nine decades worth of knowledge about the village where she was born and raised, Stafford easily enthralls listeners with stories of Oxford’s rich history infused, of course, with her own distinct humor and insight.

According to her friend, Stafford has retained that sense of humor which will no doubt aid her recovery. To buoy her spirits further, she is requesting that those who know the historian take the time to send cards and letters to her, which she plans to read to Stafford until she is well enough to read them on her own.

“We want to cover the walls with cards,” she said.

Those wishing to send notes and cards to Stafford can do so at the following address: